Tarleton State takes its C-Store into the future with bigger space, more amenities

Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas named its new C-Store after a duck.

Oscar P.’s General Store is named for university founder John Tarleton’s pet duck. According to campus legend, Oscar P. went everywhere with Tarleton and is said to be buried along with the founder.

Along with its new name, the retail operation is now expanded into a Texas-sized 1,000-square-foot space. Oscar P’s General Store was designed with an urban grocery market vibe through a collaboration between Tarleton State and dining services partner, Sodexo..

Student feedback was the key motivation for this project. Dorm residents wanted to see more items in the store and more dining options on campus, so the store was moved to a larger space and Blaze pizza was introduced in the old location. Students were even polled to name the store. 

Oscar P.'s  is well-stocked with student essentials and extras. / Photo courtesy of Tarleton State University. 

“Oscar P’s General Store has been a fantastic addition to Tarleton State University and Stephenville,” said Mike Benge, executive director of Campus Operations, Auxiliary Services, in a statement. “The store offers nearly everything that an individual would need. In addition to the standard snacks and beverages, there are fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy products, cleaning items, toiletries, school supplies and promotional items.” 

Oscar P’s is conveniently open with extended hours, from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. weekdays and 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The location is also home to Tarleton's new KiwiBot delivery robots for to-go orders. Students can use their Texan bucks and Texan dollars for all purchases.